Electrically powered device kit including a ceiling mounting assembly

ABSTRACT

Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for mounting an electrically-powered device to a ceiling or other supporting structure. The electrically-powered device can be, for example, a ceiling fan, a ceiling fan with a lighting fixture, or a lighting fixture.

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.17/145,065, filed Jan. 8, 2021, which application claims the benefit ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/497,554, filed Sep. 26, 2014, whichhas been granted as U.S. Pat. No. 10,890,191 on Jan. 12, 2021, whichapplication claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 61/883,696, filed Sep. 27, 2013, the entire contents of which arehereby incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to systems andmethods for mounting electrically powered devices, such as ceiling fans,to ceilings and other structures.

BACKGROUND

Ceiling fans are popular home fixtures as they provide a number ofbenefits. For example, ceiling fans circulate air, assist with cooling,contribute to the appearance or look of a room, and/or can provideadditional lighting. Despite these benefits, ceiling fans can bedifficult to install.

Conventionally, a mounting bracket is first mechanically secured to theceiling or electrical junction box. The assembled ceiling fan is thenelectrically connected to the electrical junction box. Wires in theelectrical junction box are typically already connected to a source ofalternating-current electric power (e.g., house power), although thepower supply should be turned off during installation of the ceilingfan. The assembled ceiling fan has a plurality of wires extending fromthe fan motor (and light, if provided) to power the fan motor (andlight) when connected to the power source. For example, in fanassemblies with a light, the fan assembly typically has four wires: ahot wire for the fan, a hot wire for the light, a neutral wire, and agrounding wire. In ceiling fan assemblies that utilize down-rods, thewires from the fan assembly will extend through the down-rod. The wiresfrom the ceiling fan assembly must be connected to the wires in theelectrical junction box. Wire nuts are typically used to connectcorresponding wires. Because the fan assembly wires are connected to thefan assembly, the entire fan assembly (or at least the fan motor andlight) often must be held or supported while the fan assembly wires areconnected to the wires in the electrical junction box. In somesituations, two people are required for this step—one person holds thefan assembly while the other connects the wires. After the wires areconnected, a structure at a top end of the fan assembly can bepositioned in a corresponding structure in the mounting bracket tosupport the fan assembly during use. In other situations, the structureat a top end of the fan assembly can be positioned in the correspondingstructure in the mounting bracket to support the fan assembly prior toconnecting the wires (and during use). The connected wires are thentucked into the electrical junction box and a canopy is mechanicallysecured to the mounting bracket. If not already installed, the fanblades are then connected to corresponding irons on the fan assembly. Ifthe fan assembly included a light kit with a removable light cover, thelight cover is then secured to the fan assembly.

In general, it would be advantageous to have improved systems andmethods for mounting ceiling fans to ceilings and other structures. Theconnection of the wires in the fan assembly to the wires in theelectrical junction box is perhaps the most challenging aspect ofceiling fan installation, and it would be particularly advantageous toimprove this aspect of ceiling fan installation. Thus, some embodimentsof the invention described herein seek to provide systems and methodsfor mounting ceiling fans that provide a number of advantages overexisting systems and methods.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The terms “invention,” “the invention,” “this invention” and “thepresent invention” used in this patent are intended to refer broadly toall of the subject matter of this patent and the patent claims below.Statements containing these terms should be understood not to limit thesubject matter described herein or to limit the meaning or scope of thepatent claims below. Embodiments of the invention covered by this patentare defined by the claims below, not this summary. This summary is ahigh-level overview of various aspects of the invention and introducessome of the concepts that are further described in the DetailedDescription section below. This summary is not intended to identify keyor essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intendedto be used in isolation to determine the scope of the claimed subjectmatter. The subject matter should be understood by reference toappropriate portions of the entire specification of this patent, any orall drawings and each claim.

Various embodiments of the present invention relate to systems formounting an electrically-powered device to a ceiling or other supportingstructure, to systems for mounting a ceiling fan, to methods formounting an electrically-powered device, and to methods for mounting aceiling fan. In addition to ceiling fans, other examples ofelectrically-powered devices that can be mounted using systems andmethods of the present invention include lighting fixtures. Whileceiling fans are often mounted to ceilings, it should be understood thatsome embodiments of the present invention can be adapted for mounting toother supporting structures including, for example, an exposed beam, adrop ceiling, and others. Likewise, when mounted to a ceiling or othersupporting structure, the ceiling or other supporting structure does notnecessarily need to be parallel to the floor (e.g., the ceiling can be aslanted ceiling, a cathedral ceiling, a vaulted ceiling, etc.).

Certain embodiments of the invention provide a system for mounting anelectrically-powered device to a ceiling or other supporting structurethat comprises: a mounting bracket comprising a receiving portion and afirst electrical connector; and a hangable structure comprising a matingmember configured to be positioned against the receiving portion, thehangable structure further comprising a second electrical connector,wherein the second electrical connector is configured to verticallyengage the first electrical connector when the mating member ispositioned so as to rest in a proper alignment against the receivingportion, and wherein the mounting bracket and the hangable structure areconfigured so that, when the mating member is positioned against thereceiving portion in the proper alignment, the effect of gravity on thehangable structure tends to keep the hangable structure engaged to themounting bracket.

In another embodiment, a system for mounting an electrically-powereddevice to a ceiling or other supporting structure comprises: a mountingbracket comprising a receiving portion and a first electrical connector;and a hangable structure comprising a mating member configured to bepositioned against the receiving portion, the hangable structure furthercomprising a second electrical connector, wherein the second electricalconnector is configured to engage the first electrical connector whenthe hangable structure is moved downwardly into position so as to restin a proper alignment against the receiving portion.

In some embodiments, a system for mounting a ceiling fan comprising amotor for rotating a plurality of fan blades comprises: a mountingbracket comprising a support surface having an opening; a firstelectrical connector coupled to the mounting bracket; a hangablestructure coupled to the ceiling fan and comprising a second electricalconnector and a plurality of wires extending from the second electricalconnector to the motor, the hangable structure comprising a matingmember and a down-rod, wherein the plurality of wires extend from thesecond electrical connector through the down-rod to the motor, andwherein the mating member is adapted to rest against the support surfaceand wherein the second electrical connector vertically engages the firstelectrical connector when the mating member rests against the supportsurface in a proper alignment.

A method for mounting a ceiling fan, wherein the ceiling fan comprises amotor for rotating a plurality of fan blades, comprises, in someimplementations: providing a mounting bracket comprising a supportsurface having an opening; providing a first electrical connectorcoupled to the mounting bracket; providing a hangable structure coupledto the ceiling fan and comprising a second electrical connector and aplurality of wires extending from the second electrical connector to themotor, the hangable structure further comprising a mating member and adown-rod, wherein the plurality of wires extend from the secondelectrical connector through the down-rod to the motor; sliding thedown-rod through the opening in the support surface; placing the matingmember against the support surface; and vertically engaging the secondelectrical connector with the first electrical connector.

These and other embodiments are presented in greater detail in theDetailed Description which follows.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a side view of components of a system for mounting aceiling fan to a supporting structure according to one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 2 shows a side perspective view of components of a system formounting a ceiling fan to a supporting structure according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 shows a side perspective view of one embodiment of a mountingbracket for use in some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 4 shows a side view of one embodiment of a mounting bracket for usein some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 5 shows a front perspective view of one embodiment of a mountingbracket for use in some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 6 shows a side perspective view of one embodiment of a hangablestructure for use in some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 7 shows a side view of one embodiment of a hangable structure foruse in some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 8 shows a side perspective view of components of a system formounting a ceiling fan to a supporting structure according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 shows a front perspective view of components of a system formounting a ceiling fan to a supporting structure according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 shows another front perspective view of components of a systemfor mounting a ceiling fan to a supporting structure according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 shows a side view of components of a system for mounting aceiling fan to a supporting structure with the hangable structurepositioned so as to hang from the mounting bracket according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 shows a side perspective view of components of a system formounting a ceiling fan to a supporting structure with the hangablestructure positioned so as to hang from the mounting bracket accordingto one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 shows a front perspective view of components of a system formounting a ceiling fan to a supporting structure with the hangablestructure positioned so as to hang from the mounting bracket accordingto one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 shows a side perspective view of the hangable structurepositioned so as to hang from the mounting bracket of a system formounting ceiling fans according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 15 shows a side view of the hangable structure positioned so as tohang from the mounting bracket of a system for mounting ceiling fansaccording to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 shows a side perspective view of components of a system formounting a ceiling fan to a supporting structure with the hangablestructure positioned so as to hang from the mounting bracket accordingto one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 shows a top perspective view of components of a system formounting a ceiling fan to a supporting structure with the hangablestructure positioned so as to hang from the mounting bracket accordingto one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 shows another top perspective view of components of a system formounting a ceiling fan to a supporting structure with the hangablestructure positioned so as to hang from the mounting bracket accordingto one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 shows a top view of components of a system for mounting aceiling fan to a supporting structure with the hangable structurepositioned so as to hang from the mounting bracket according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 shows a side perspective view of one embodiment of a hangablestructure for use in some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 21 shows a side perspective view of one embodiment of a mountingbracket for use in some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 22 shows a front perspective view of one embodiment of a mountingbracket for use in some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 23 shows a side perspective view of the hangable structurepositioned so as to hang from the mounting bracket of a system formounting ceiling fans according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 24 shows a side view of the hangable structure positioned so as tohang from the mounting bracket of a system for mounting ceiling fansaccording to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 25 shows a front perspective view of an embodiment of a mountingbracket and hangable structure for use in some embodiments of thepresent invention.

FIG. 26 shows another front perspective view of an embodiment of amounting bracket and hangable structure for use in some embodiments ofthe present invention.

FIG. 27 shows a rear perspective view of an embodiment of a mountingbracket and hangable structure for use in some embodiments of thepresent invention.

FIG. 28 shows another front perspective view of an embodiment of amounting bracket and hangable structure for use in some embodiments ofthe present invention.

FIG. 29 shows another rear perspective view of an embodiment of amounting bracket and hangable structure for use in some embodiments ofthe present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The subject matter of embodiments of the present invention is describedhere with specificity to meet statutory requirements, but thisdescription is not necessarily intended to limit the scope of futureclaims. The subject matter to be claimed may be embodied in other ways,may include different elements or steps, and may be used in conjunctionwith other existing or future technologies. This description should notbe interpreted as implying any particular order or arrangement among orbetween various steps or elements except when the order of individualsteps or arrangement of elements is explicitly described.

Embodiments of the present invention relate to systems and methods formounting an electrically-powered device to a ceiling or other supportingstructure. While the systems and methods described herein are primarilyuseful in mounting ceiling fans to a ceiling, it should be understoodthat some embodiments of such systems and methods can be used to mountother electrically-powered devices such as lighting fixtures (e.g.,chandeliers). Likewise, while ceiling fans are often mounted toceilings, it should be understood that some embodiments of the presentinvention can be adapted for mounting to other supporting structuresincluding, for example, an exposed beam, a drop ceiling, and others.Likewise, when mounted to a ceiling or other supporting structure, theceiling or other supporting structure does not necessarily need to beparallel to the floor (e.g., the ceiling can be a slanted ceiling, acathedral ceiling, a vaulted ceiling, etc.).

In some embodiments, ceiling fans that are to be mounted can include alight kit or light. While the description and figures of particularembodiments may or may not specifically reference a light kit or lightbeing coupled to the fan assembly, it should be understood that theillustrated embodiments can easily be adapted for fan assemblies withlights, or that illustrated embodiments showing fan assemblies with alight kit or light can easily be adapted for fan assemblies withoutlights. Similarly, systems and methods of the present invention canreadily be adapted for the mounting of flush-mount fan assemblies, fanassemblies with down-rods, or others.

Some embodiments of the present invention relate to systems for mountingan electrically-powered device to a ceiling or other supportingstructure. Certain embodiments of the invention provide a system formounting an electrically-powered device to a ceiling or other supportingstructure that comprises: a mounting bracket comprising a receivingportion and a first electrical connector; and a hangable structurecomprising a mating member configured to be positioned against thereceiving portion, the hangable structure further comprising a secondelectrical connector, wherein the second electrical connector isconfigured to vertically engage the first electrical connector when themating member is positioned so as to rest in a proper alignment againstthe receiving portion, and wherein the mounting bracket and the hangablestructure are configured so that, when the mating member is positionedagainst the receiving portion in the proper alignment, the effect ofgravity on the hangable structure tends to keep the hangable structureengaged to the mounting bracket.

In another embodiment, a system for mounting an electrically-powereddevice to a ceiling or other supporting structure comprises: a mountingbracket comprising a receiving portion and a first electrical connector;and a hangable structure comprising a mating member configured to bepositioned against the receiving portion, the hangable structure furthercomprising a second electrical connector, wherein the second electricalconnector is configured to engage the first electrical connector whenthe hangable structure is moved downwardly into position so as to restin a proper alignment against the receiving portion.

In some embodiments, the mounting bracket and the hangable structure areconfigured so that, when the mating member is positioned against thereceiving portion in the proper alignment, the effect of gravity on thehangable structure tends to keep the first and second electricalconnectors in electrical contact. The mating member, in some embodimentscan have a shape that substantially matches the shape of a surface ofthe receiving portion so that, after the mating member is positionedagainst the receiving portion in the proper alignment, the mating membertends to stay in the proper alignment as the hangable structure hangsfrom the mounting bracket.

The first electrical connector and second electrical connector, invarious embodiments, can comprise male connectors with correspondingfemale connectors, electrical contact spring pins with correspondingelectrical contact surfaces, and other types of electrical connectors.In some embodiments, the first electrical connector is adapted to beelectrically connected to a source of alternating-current electricpower, and the second electrical connector can be coupled electricallyto a fan motor or other electrically-powered device. The hangablestructure, in some embodiments, further comprises a down-rod, and aplurality of wires extend from the second electrical connector throughthe down-rod to the fan motor or other electrically-powered device. Insome embodiments, the second electrical connector is further coupledelectrically to a light.

The second electrical connector, in some embodiments, is electricallycoupled to a plurality of wires which are wrappable around at least aportion of the mounting bracket before the second electrical connectoris vertically engaged with the first electrical connector. In someembodiments, the mounting bracket comprises at least one hook tofacilitate wrapping and retention of the plurality of wires around atleast one portion of the mounting bracket.

The mounting bracket, in some embodiments, comprises a prong, and thehangable structure comprises a groove, such that the groove is adaptedto slide over the prong, and the groove and prong facilitate alignmentof the hangable structure with the mounting bracket. In otherembodiments, the groove can be on the mounting bracket, and the prongcan be on the hangable structure.

In some embodiments, the mating member is wider than a lower portion ofthe hangable structure and the receiving portion includes an opening ofsufficient size to allow the lower portion to pass through the openingand into the receiving portion while the mating member passes above theopening. In some such embodiments, the receiving portion is configuredso that, after the lower portion is brought into the receiving portion,the hangable structure can be lowered so that the mating member ispositioned against the receiving portion in the proper alignment andinterferes with gravity-influenced passage of the mating member entirelythrough the receiving portion.

The receiving portion, in some embodiments, comprises a support surface,and the mating member is adapted for positioning against at least aportion of the support surface. The receiving portion further comprisesat least one slot formed by two ridges on a sidewall of the mountingbracket in some embodiments. For example, the mating member can comprisea protrusion configured to slide into the at least one slot. In somesuch embodiments, the mating member comprises a protrusion configured toslide into the at least one slot.

In some embodiments, a system for mounting a ceiling fan comprising amotor for rotating a plurality of fan blades comprises: a mountingbracket comprising a support surface having an opening; a firstelectrical connector coupled to the mounting bracket; a hangablestructure coupled to the ceiling fan and comprising a second electricalconnector and a plurality of wires extending from the second electricalconnector to the motor, the hangable structure comprising a matingmember and a down-rod, wherein the plurality of wires extend from thesecond electrical connector through the down-rod to the motor, andwherein the mating member is adapted to rest against the support surfaceand wherein the second electrical connector vertically engages the firstelectrical connector when the mating member rests against the supportsurface in a proper alignment.

In some embodiments, the second electrical connector vertically engagesthe first electrical connector when the mating member is positionedagainst the support surface.

The first electrical connector and second electrical connector, invarious embodiments, can comprise male connectors with correspondingfemale connectors, electrical contact spring pins with correspondingelectrical contact surfaces, and other types of electrical connectors.

The mounting bracket and the hangable structure are configured, in someembodiments, so that, when the mating member is positioned against thesupport surface in the proper alignment, the effect of gravity on thehangable structure tends to keep the first and second electricalconnectors in electrical contact.

In some embodiments, the mating member has a shape that substantiallymatches the shape of the support surface so that, after the matingmember is positioned against the support surface in the properalignment, the mating member tends to stay in the proper alignment asthe hangable structure hangs from the mounting bracket. The matingmember, in some embodiments, is wider than the down-rod, and the openingof the support surface is sufficient in size to allow the down-rod topass through the opening and into a space substantially surrounded bythe support surface while the mating member passes above the opening. Insome such embodiments, the support surface is configured so that, afterthe down-rod is brought into the space, the hangable structure can belowered so that the mating member is positioned against the supportsurface in the proper alignment and interferes with gravity-influencedpassage of the mating member entirely through the support surface.

The plurality of wires, in some embodiments, are wrappable around atleast a portion of the mounting bracket before the second electricalconnector is vertically engaged with the first electrical connector. Insome embodiments, the mounting bracket comprises at least one hook tofacilitate wrapping and retention of the plurality of wires around atleast one portion of the mounting bracket.

The mounting bracket, in some embodiments, comprises a prong, and thehangable structure comprises a groove, such that the groove is adaptedto slide over the prong, and the groove and prong facilitate alignmentof the hangable structure with the mounting bracket. In otherembodiments, the groove can be on the mounting bracket, and the prongcan be on the hangable structure.

In some embodiments, the width of the opening is greater than thediameter of the down-rod. The mounting bracket, in some embodiments,comprises at least one slot formed by the support surface and two ridgeson a sidewall of the mounting bracket. In some such embodiments, thehangable structure comprises a protrusion configured to slide into theat least one slot.

A method for mounting a ceiling fan, wherein the ceiling fan comprises amotor for rotating a plurality of fan blades, comprises, in someimplementations: providing a mounting bracket comprising a supportsurface having an opening; providing a first electrical connectorcoupled to the mounting bracket; providing a hangable structure coupledto the ceiling fan and comprising a second electrical connector and aplurality of wires extending from the second electrical connector to themotor, the hangable structure further comprising a mating member and adown-rod, wherein the plurality of wires extend from the secondelectrical connector through the down-rod to the motor; sliding thedown-rod through the opening in the support surface; placing the matingmember against the support surface; and vertically engaging the secondelectrical connector with the first electrical connector. The secondelectrical connector, in some embodiments, is vertically engaged withthe first electrical connector substantially simultaneously withplacement of the mating member against the support surface. In someembodiments, such methods further comprise connecting the firstelectrical connector to a source of alternating-current electric power.Some methods, in some embodiments, further comprise wrapping a portionof the plurality of wires around a portion of the mounting bracket.

Certain aspects of the present invention will now be discussed inconnection with the attached Figures which illustrate some embodimentsof the present invention. Although the remainder of the descriptionassociated with the Figures will focus on embodiments related to themounting of ceiling fans with down-rods, it should be understood thatonly slight modifications need to be made to the components in order tocreate systems for the mounting of flush-mount ceiling fans as well asother electrically-powered devices (e.g., hanging lights such aschandeliers).

FIGS. 1-19 illustrate various components of a system 5 for mounting aceiling fan to a supporting structure according to one embodiment of thepresent invention. While various components are illustrated anddescribed in connection with FIGS. 1-19 , it should be understood thatnot all systems according to the present invention may utilize each ofthe components and features illustrated and described. FIG. 1 is a sideview of the system 5. The system 5 includes a mounting bracket 10 and ahangable structure 12 configured such that the hangable structure 12 canbe positioned so as to hang from the mounting bracket 10 as describedfurther herein. To facilitate this positioning, in some embodiments, themounting bracket 10 comprises a receiving portion 9 and the hangablestructure 12 comprises a mating member 13, with the mating member 13being configured to be positioned against the receiving portion 9. Themounting bracket 10 includes a first electrical connector 14, and thehangable structure 12 comprises a second electrical connector 16. Thefirst and second electrical connectors 14,16 are oriented such that theyvertically engage (making an electrical connection) when the matingmember 13 is properly positioned on the mounting bracket 10 (e.g., areceiving portion 9 of the mounting bracket 10) as discussed furtherherein.

The hangable structure 12 further comprises a ball or ball-likestructure 68 that is positioned in the mating member 13 and is coupledto a down-rod 20 (best seen in other Figures.). The down-rod 20 iscoupled to a yoke (not visible due to a yoke cover 22). The down-rod 20can be coupled to the yoke using techniques known to those of skill inthe art such as by passing a pin through aligned holes in the down-rod20 and yoke and then securing the pin with a Cotter pin. Set screws canalso be used to further secure the down-rod 20 to the yoke. The yoke istypically coupled to the ceiling fan motor or motor housing 24 usingscrews or other fasteners. The ceiling fan motor (not shown) istypically located in a motor housing 24. A plurality of blade irons 26are each coupled at one end to a hub 28 or similar item that is coupledto the motor. The plurality of blade irons 26 are also coupled to aplurality of fan blades 30. A switch housing 32 is coupled to thestructure beneath the motor housing. In some embodiments, a light kitmay be connected to the ceiling fan assembly at the switch housing 32.The embodiment shown also includes a canopy 34 that when installed, isgenerally adjacent to the ceiling or other supporting structure and canhide the mounting bracket 10, mating member 13, and associatedelectrical connection. In FIG. 1 , the canopy 34 is not in its installedposition in order to facilitate positioning of the mating member 13 onthe mounting bracket 10 and connecting of the electrical connectors14,16. The canopy 34 is shown in its installed position in FIG. 16 ; aceiling is not shown in FIG. 16 , but it should be understood that thetop edge of the canopy 34 would typically be flush with the ceiling (orother supporting structure).

The mounting aspects of various embodiments of systems and methods ofthe present invention are the result of interactions between a mountingbracket, a mating member (and/or other components of a hangablestructure), and electrical connectors. This mounting assembly canreadily be adapted for the mounting of ceiling fans other than the onesshown in the attached Figures (e.g., fans without a down-rod, fans withdifferent numbers of fan blades, fans with light kits, etc.), tolighting fixtures, and to other electrically-powered devices that are tobe mounted to a ceiling or other supporting structure. As such, personsof skill in the art can select a wide variety of fan, lighting, or otherdevice components to use with embodiments of mounting assemblies of thepresent invention based on a variety of factors including, for example,ornamental appearance, function, cost, etc.

FIGS. 3-5 illustrate one embodiment of a mounting bracket 10 that can beused in various embodiments of the present invention. The top portion ofthe mounting bracket comprises two upper surfaces 36 that are adjacentto the ceiling and/or electrical junction box when the mounting bracket10 is installed. Rather than having two upper surfaces as shown,alternative embodiments of mounting brackets can include a single uppersurface (e.g., a ring-shaped upper surface, a square-shaped uppersurface, an arc-shaped upper surface, etc.) or more than two uppersurfaces. The number of upper surfaces can depend on a number of factorsincluding, for example, the desired number of connection points for themounting bracket 10, material costs, the weight of the fan, light orother electrically-powered device to be supported, and other features ofthe mounting bracket 10. In the embodiment shown, each of the uppersurfaces 36 is provided with an opening 38. The openings 38 are adaptedto receive a screw or other fastener to secure the mounting bracket 10to a ceiling and/or an electrical junction box. For example, anelectrical junction box may be provided with threaded openings toreceive screws that pass through the openings 38 to secure the mountingbracket 10 to the electrical junction box. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 3-5 , the openings 38 are in the form of slots, though those ofskill in the art will recognize that other shaped openings (e.g.,circular) could also be used. Likewise, other techniques for couplingthe mounting bracket to the ceiling, support structure, and/orelectrical junction box can be used in other embodiments.

In the embodiment shown, there are two upper side surfaces 40 that areproximate the upper surfaces 36 of the mounting bracket. As noted above,the number of upper surfaces in a mounting bracket may vary, and thenumber of upper side surfaces may likewise vary. In the embodimentshown, the upper side surfaces 40 are curved and include a plurality ofopenings 42. The curved upper side surfaces 40 and plurality of openings42 facilitate connection of the canopy to the mounting bracket 10 afterthe hangable structure 12 is positioned in the mounting bracket 10 andthe electrical connectors 14,16 are engaged. In the embodiment shown,the curved upper side surfaces 40 are designed to coincide with an innerside surface of the canopy 34, and the canopy includes a plurality ofopenings 44 that align with the plurality of openings 42 in the upperside surfaces 40. Likewise, the canopy 34 can be secured to the mountingbracket 10 using a plurality of fasteners 46 (e.g., screws) that passthrough the openings 44 in the canopy 34 and the openings 42 in theupper side surfaces 40 as seen, for example, in FIGS. 16-17 . Othertechniques known to those of skill in the art can also be used to securea canopy to a mounting bracket depending on the size and shape of thecanopy, the number of desired connection points between the canopy andthe mounting bracket, the desired fastening method, and others.

Mounting brackets used in embodiments of the present invention cancomprise a receiving portion. The receiving portion of the mountingbracket can be designed to facilitate placement of, and to providesupport to, the mating member of the hangable structure. The receivingportion can have a number of different configurations depending onfactors such as the materials of construction, the weight of the fan,light, or other electrical device to be supported, the size and shape ofthe mating member, the size and shape of any down-rod or other portionsof the hangable structure, the location of the electrical connectors,the ceiling or supporting structure to which the mounting bracket is tobe mounted, and others.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-5 , the receiving portion 9 of themounting bracket 10 comprises a number of features to assist inplacement and support of the mating member 13. Multiple sidewalls 50extend from the upper surfaces 36 to a lower surface 48 of the mountingbracket 10. While multiple sidewalls 50 are shown in the Figures, inother embodiments, fewer or more sidewalls can extend from an uppersurface to a lower surface. The number of sidewalls can depend on anumber of factors including the materials used to construct the mountingbracket, the thickness of the sidewall(s), the number of uppersurface(s), the position, shape, and configuration of the lower surface,any features on the lower surface, the weight of the fan, light, orother device being supported, and others. In the embodiment shown, thetwo inner sidewalls 50 a are provided with a plurality of ridges 52. Oneach side, a stepped-up surface 49, the inner sidewall 50 a, and theridges 52 form a slot that can receive a corresponding protrusion 76 ona sidewall of the mating member 13 (see, for example, FIGS. 10, 18, and19 ). In this embodiment, placement of the protrusions 76 in the slotson the inner sidewalls 50 a assists with placement and retention of themating member 13 in the mounting bracket 10.

While the receiving portion 9 forms an opening or hollow center 56(e.g., to permit a down-rod or other structure to extend downward fromthe mounting bracket 10), the receiving portion 9 may also comprise anopening 54, in some embodiments, to assist with receiving the hangablestructure 12. In other words, instead of forming a complete perimeteraround the hollow center 56, at least a portion of the structure formingthe receiving portion 9 may have one or more openings 54 to permit aportion of the hangable structure 12 (e.g., a lower portion of thehangable structure or the down-rod 20) to slide into the hollow center56. The one or more openings 54 may also be sized to help retain themating member 13 in the proper alignment once positioned on the mountingbracket. For example, as shown in FIG. 6 , the hangable structure 12 mayhave a ball or ball-like structure 68 positioned in the mating member 13and extending out the bottom of the mating member 13.

The opening 54 of the receiving portion 9 may be sufficiently sized toallow a lower portion of the hangable structure (e.g., the portion ofthe ball-like structure 68 extending out the bottom of the mating member13 and/or the down-rod 20) to pass through the opening 54 and into thereceiving portion 9 while the mating member 13 passes above the opening54. In some embodiments, the opening 54 of the receiving portion 9 maybe sized to be smaller than the width of the surface of the matingmember 13 adjacent to the opening 54 when the mating member 13 isproperly aligned so as to help retain the mating member 13 in thereceiving portion 9.

Likewise, the hollow center 56 can be dimensioned and/or shaped so as topermit a lower portion of the hangable structure (e.g., the portion ofthe ball-like structure 68 extending out the bottom of the mating member13 and/or the down-rod 20) to pass downwardly through it as a result ofgravity but to prevent the mating member 13 from doing so. In otherwords, the mating member 13 may be shaped differently from, and/or sizedlarger than, the hollow center 56 so as to interfere with gravityinfluenced-passage of the mating member 13 entirely through the hollowcenter 56 of the receiving portion 9.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-19 , the lower surface 48 andperipheral walls 58,60,62 form the hollow center 56 and also includesthe opening 54. While the lower surface 48 is in the lower portion ofthe mounting bracket 10 in the embodiment shown, it should be understoodthat a similar surface forming a hollow center and including a similaropening could be positioned at different locations within the mountingbracket (e.g., above other structure) such that the surface does notnecessarily need to be in the lower portion.

In some embodiments, the receiving portion can comprise a supportsurface. The support surface, in some embodiments, can form the hollowcenter 56 and can include the opening 54. The support surface can beconfigured such that a mating member of a hangable structure restsagainst the support surface as discussed further below. In someembodiments, the support surface can comprise multiple surfaces.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-19 , the receiving portion 9comprises a plurality of peripheral walls 58,60,62 that are provided onthe lower surface 48. The peripheral walls 58,60,62 in this embodimenthelp form the hollow center 56. Two of the peripheral walls 58,60 areadjacent the opening 54. In this embodiment, the other peripheral wall62 is generally U-shaped and slightly taller than the other twoperipheral walls 58,60 as shown in FIG. 4 . One or more of theperipheral walls 58,60,62 can be a support surface in variousembodiments. As discussed below, side surfaces of the mating member 13rest or are positioned against an inner surface of the peripheral walls58,60,62. In addition, a portion of the mating member can also restagainst an upper surface of the peripheral wall 62. In this manner, theperipheral walls 58,60,62 assist in keeping the mating member 13 inproper alignment.

Rather than using a plurality of peripheral walls (with or without alower surface), other structural arrangements can also be provided toform a hollow center, to form an opening for receiving the hangablestructure, and/or to provide a support surface for a mating member. Forexample, in other embodiments, a receiving portion can comprise a singleperipheral wall or a single peripheral rim with an opening that canserve as a support surface for a mating member.

The mounting bracket comprises a first electrical connector in variousembodiments. In the embodiment shown, the first electrical connector 14is coupled to the lower surface 48 of the mounting bracket 10. Twoscrews are used to connect the first electrical connector 14 to thelower surface 48 in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-5 . Various othertechniques known to those of skill in the art can be used to couple theelectrical connector to a mounting bracket including, for example, useof an adhesive as well as fasteners other than screws. A plurality ofwires 66 are electrically coupled to the first electrical connector 14.The wires 66 can be used to electrically couple the first electricalconnector 14 to a source of alternating-current electric power (e.g.,house power, power from a generator and other sources known to those ofskill in the art). Wire nuts or other techniques known to those of skillin the art can be used to electrically couple the wires 66 tocorresponding wires that are connected to the source ofalternating-current electric power.

In being electrically coupled to a source of alternating-currentelectric power, the first electrical connector 14 can provideelectricity to devices that are connected to the second electricalconnector 16 when the first and second electrical connectors 14,16 areelectrically coupled. In the embodiment shown, the first electricalconnector 14 is a female connector and can be engaged or connected witha corresponding male electrical connector. In other embodiments, thefirst electrical connector 14 can be a male connector and can be engagedor connected with a corresponding female electrical connector.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-19 , four wires 66 are provided. Byway of example, two wires (black and white) can provide electricity tothe fan motor, one wire (blue) can provide electricity to a light, andone wire can be a ground (green). While four wires 66 are shown in theembodiment of FIGS. 1-19 , other wire arrangements can be provided. Forexample, in some embodiments, only two or three wires may be utilized.

In some embodiments, mounting brackets can be provided with structure tofacilitate use of a remote control to operate the ceiling fan, lightingfixture, or other electrically-powered device. For example, the mountingbracket 10 shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-19 is provided with a ring67 to provide structural support for a remote control receiver. A remotecontrol receiver can be placed on the ring 67 (typically, afterinstallation of the mounting bracket on a ceiling or other supportingstructure). As known to those of skill in the art, a remote controlreceiver can receive wireless signals from a remote control to operatethe electrically-powered device (e.g., turn a ceiling fan on/off, adjustfan speed, turn light on/off, adjust brightness, etc.). The remotecontrol receiver can be electrically incorporated into various systemsof the present invention using techniques known to those of skill in theart. While a ring is shown as an exemplary embodiment, structure havingother shapes and sizes can also be used. One factor in selecting thesize and shape of the structure as well as its location on the mountingbracket is providing sufficient space for a hangable structure to beproperly positioned in the receiving portion of the mounting bracket.

Turning now to hangable structures, FIGS. 6-7 illustrate one embodimentof a hangable structure 12 that can be used in some embodiments of thepresent invention. In this embodiment, the hangable structure 12comprises a mating member 13, a ball or ball-like structure 68positioned in the mating member and extending partially out the bottomof the mating member 13, and a down-rod 20. In the embodiment shown, theball-like structure 68 has a substantially hollow interior to receivethe down-rod 20. The down-rod 20 is coupled to the ball-like structure68 with a down-rod pin 70 as best shown in FIGS. 18 and 19 . Thedown-rod pin 70 passes through two aligned holes in the down-rod 20 andits ends sit in corresponding slots in the ball-like structure 68. Thedown-rod 20 can be coupled to the ball-like structure 68 using othertechniques known to those of skill in the art. In some embodiments, theball-like structure 68 and down-rod 20 can be constructed as a singlecomponent. The coupling of the down-rod 20 with the ball-like structure68 permits the down-rod 20 to move or rotate as the ball-like structure68 moves or rotates within the mating member 13. Such rotation of theball-like structure 68 can, for example, facilitate mounting of aceiling fan, lighting fixture, or other electrically-powered device on aceiling or other supporting structure that is not horizontal. In suchembodiments, the ball-like structure 68 can rotate in the mating member13 allowing the down-rod 20 (which is coupled to the ball-like structure68 in the embodiment shown) to likewise rotate and hang substantiallyvertically when the mounting bracket 10 is installed on a non-horizontalceiling or supporting structure. In the embodiment shown (see, e.g.,FIGS. 6, 18 , and 19), a plate 72 with an opening to receive an upperportion of the ball-like structure 68 is coupled to the mating member 13using a plurality of screws 74. The ball-like structure 68 can besecured to the mating member 13 using a variety of other techniquesknown to those of skill in the art. While the mating member 13,ball-like structure 68, and down-rod 20 are shown as separate componentsin the embodiment of FIGS. 1-19 , it should be understood that thefeatures of a ball or ball-like structure and/or down-rod can beintegrated into a mating member such that the mating member is a singlecomponent. For example, a mating member can be fabricated as a singlecomponent to include an upper portion similar to that shown with atubular structure extending downward (e.g., eliminating the ball orball-like structure).

As discussed above, one or more sidewalls of a mating member can beprovided with a protrusion that can slide into one or more correspondingslots in a mounting bracket to facilitate placement and retention of themating member in the mounting bracket. In the embodiment shown in FIGS.1-19 , opposite sides of the mating member 13 include a protrusion 76that can be received in corresponding slots on the inner sidewalls 50 aof the mounting bracket. Alternative arrangements can also be used. Forexample, in another embodiment, a mounting bracket can be provided witha prong or similar protrusion, and a hangable structure can be providedwith a corresponding groove. The groove can be adapted to slide over theprong, for example, when the hangable structure is positioned in themounting bracket to facilitate alignment of the hangable structure withthe mounting bracket.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-19 , the mating member 13 alsocomprises an extension 78. The extension 78 projects from a sidewall ofthe mounting member. When the mating member 13 is positioned in thereceiving portion 9 of the mounting bracket 10, the extension 78 canextend above one of the peripheral walls 62 on the mounting bracket 10.In other embodiments, the extension 78 can be positioned against asupport surface of the peripheral wall 62.

In some embodiments, a second electrical connector is coupled to thehangable structure. For example, in such embodiments, the secondelectrical connector can be coupled to a mating member of the hangablestructure. In the embodiment shown, the second electrical connector 16is coupled to the extension 78 on the mating member 13. Two screws 80are used to connect the second electrical connector 16 to the extension78 in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6-7 . Various other techniques knownto those of skill in the art can be used to couple an electricalconnector to a hangable structure or mating member including, forexample, use of an adhesive as well as fasteners other than screws.

A plurality of wires 82 are electrically coupled to the secondelectrical connector 16. The wires 82 can be used to electrically couplethe second electrical connector 16 to components of anelectrically-powered device that require electricity. For example, thewires can be connected to a fan motor and/or a light. In the embodimentshown in FIGS. 1-19 , the plurality of wires 82 extend from the secondconnector 16 through the down-rod 20 to the fan motor.

In the embodiment shown, the wires 82 are coupled to the secondelectrical connector 16 by a plurality of spring-loaded tabs 84. Eachspring-loaded tab 84 can be associated with a connection point on thesecond electrical connector 16. A plurality of openings can be providedin the second electrical connector 16 to receive the wires 82. When aspring-loaded tab 84 is depressed, the area of the opening can increasein order to receive a wire. When the spring-loaded tab 84 is released,the area of the opening decreases in order to retain the wire 82 in theopening. Other techniques known to those of skill in the art can be usedto electrically couple wires to a second electrical connector including,for example, by hard wiring the wires to the second electricalconnector.

A contact point can be provided in the opening of the second electricalconnector 16 so as to electrically couple the second electricalconnector 16 with one or more items to be powered (e.g., fan motor,lighting fixture, etc.). As discussed above, the first electricalconnector 14 can be electrically coupled to a source ofalternating-current electric power, such that the first electricalconnector 14 can provide electricity to the items when the secondelectrical connector 16 is electrically coupled to the first electricalconnector 14. In the embodiment shown, the second electrical connector16 is a male connector and can be engaged or connected with acorresponding female electrical connector. In other embodiments, thesecond electrical connector 16 can be a female connector and can beengaged or connected with a corresponding male electrical connector.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-19 , four wires 82 are provided. Byway of example, two wires (black and white) can provide electricity tothe fan motor, one wire (blue) can provide electricity to a light, andone wire can be a ground (green). While four wires 82 are shown in theembodiment of FIGS. 1-19 , other wire arrangements can be provided. Forexample, in some embodiments, only two or three wires may be utilized.

The first electrical connector and the second electrical connector canbe configured to engage vertically in some embodiments of the presentinvention. For example, in some embodiments, the second electricalconnector (e.g., the electrical connector on a hangable structure) canbe configured to vertically engage the first electrical connector (e.g.,the electrical connector on a mounting bracket) when the hangablestructure (e.g., a mating member of a hangable structure) is properlyaligned in the receiving portion of the mounting bracket. The secondelectrical connector, in some embodiments, can be configured to engagethe first electrical connector when the hangable structure is moveddownwardly into position so as to rest in a proper alignment against thereceiving portion of the mounting bracket. In some embodiments, with thesecond electrical connector vertically engaging the first electricalconnector, the effect of gravity on the hangable structure can assist inkeeping the first and second electrical connectors in electricalcontact.

Thus, the interaction between a mating member of a hangable structureand a receiving portion of a mounting bracket can be an important aspectof some embodiments of the present invention. The mating member, in someembodiments, can be configured to be positioned against the receivingportion of the mounting bracket. The mating member and the receivingportion can incorporate features to ensure a proper or desired alignmentof the hangable structure within the mounting bracket. Proper alignmentof the mating member with the receiving portion can provide advantagesto some embodiments of the present invention. For example, as notedabove, proper alignment of the mating member with the receiving portioncan facilitate vertical engagement of a second electrical connector onthe hangable structure with a first electrical connector. As anotherexample, proper alignment of the mating member in the mounting bracketcan utilize the effect of gravity on the hangable structure to keep thehangable structure engaged to the mounting bracket. One way in whichproper alignment can be facilitated and maintained is by utilizing amating member that has a shape that substantially matches the shape of asurface (or surfaces) of the receiving portion.

With regard to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-19 , FIGS. 8-10 show themating member 13 prior to positioning in the receiving portion 9 of themounting bracket. These Figures illustrate, for example, an embodimentwhere the shape of the mating member 13 substantially matches the shapeof a surface (or surfaces) of the receiving portion 9 (e.g., peripheralwalls 58,60,62). Likewise, as shown, the mating member 13 is wider thana lower portion of the hangable structure (e.g., the bottom of theball-like structure 68 and the down-rod 20), and the opening 54 of thereceiving portion 9 is of sufficient size to allow the lower portion topass through the opening 54 and into the receiving portion 9 while themating member 13 passes above the opening 54. After the lower portion ofthe hangable structure 12 is brought into the receiving portion 9 of themounting bracket 10, the hangable structure can be lowered so that themating member 13 is positioned against one or more support surfaces(e.g., peripheral walls 58,60,62 and the slots formed near the bottom ofsidewalls 50 a) in the receiving portion 9. The hollow center 56 of thereceiving portion 9 is sized to interfere with gravity-influencedpassage of the mating member entirely through the hollow center 56.

These structures, in this embodiment, facilitate proper alignment of themating member 13 in the mounting bracket 10. FIGS. 12-15 and 17-19 showthe mating member 13 properly aligned in the receiving portion 9 of themounting bracket 10. As shown, the second electrical connector 16 isvertically engaged with the first electrical connector 14. The alignmentof the mating member 13 in the receiving portion 9 of the mountingbracket 10 facilitated the vertical engagement of the connectors 14,16(e.g., caused the corresponding male and female portions to align). Inaddition, the vertical engagement of the electrical connectors 14,16advantageously occurs as the mating member 13 was positioned against thereceiving portion 9 in proper alignment. As the hangable structure 12 iscoupled with a ceiling fan motor and other associated components, theeffect of gravity tends to keep the first and second electricalconnectors 14,16 in electrical contact. The effect of gravity also tendsto keep the mating member 13 in proper alignment within the receivingportion 9.

FIGS. 1-19 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of systems and methods ofthe present invention. This embodiment can be modified in a varietyways, for example, as previously described above. FIGS. 20-24 illustratevarious components of another embodiment of a system 205 for mounting anelectrically-powered device (in this embodiment, a ceiling fan) to aceiling or other supporting structure. The system 205 includes amounting bracket 210 and a hangable structure 212 configured such thatthe hangable structure 212 can be positioned in the mounting bracket210. With the exception of the electrical connectors and hooks(discussed below), the structure associated with the mounting bracket210 and the hangable structure 212 is the same for this system 205 as itwas for the system 5 of FIGS. 1-19 . Accordingly, except as discussedbelow, the interaction and operation of the mounting bracket 210, thehangable structure 212, and other components of FIGS. 20-24 should beunderstood to incorporate the same features (and potential variations ofsuch features) and operate in the same manner as the mounting bracket10, hangable structure 12, and other components discussed above inconnection with FIGS. 1-19 .

The primary difference in the embodiment of FIGS. 20-24 relates to thesecond electrical connector 214. As with the embodiment in FIGS. 1-19 ,a plurality of wires 216 extend from a fan motor (and/or light fixture)and through a down-rod 218 (or just through a mating member 219 if adown-rod is not utilized). To assist with wire management, a largelength of the wires 216 may be encased in a sleeve 220 as known to thoseof skill in the art. Rather than being electrically coupled with anelectrical connector that is attached to the mating member 219 or otherpart of the hangable structure 212, the plurality of wires 216 areelectrically coupled with the second electrical connector 214, which inthis embodiment, is not coupled to any other structure. The mountingbracket 210 still has a first electrical connector 222 coupled to it,though the first electrical connector can be positioned at otherlocations on the mounting bracket 210 in this embodiment due to theloose second electrical connector 214 (i.e., the second electricalconnector 214 is not engaged in the first electrical connector 222 whenthe mating member 219 is properly aligned in the mounting bracket 210).This embodiment can result in the wires 216 being longer than necessary.The mounting bracket 210 can be configured so as to permit the pluralityof wires 216 (whether encased in a sleeve or not) to be wrapped aroundat least a portion of the mounting bracket 210 prior to engaging thesecond electrical connector 214 in the first electrical connector 222.In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 20-24 , one or more hooks 224 areprovided to facilitate wrapping and retention of the plurality of wires216 around the mounting bracket 210. Other structures could also beused.

This embodiment advantageously allow a given length of wires 216 to beused in a variety of ceiling fan configurations (e.g., at a variety ofvertical distances from the ceiling or other supporting structure). Forexample, individuals utilize ceiling fans that hang at differentvertical distances from a ceiling or other supporting structure. Toaccount for this, a ceiling fan assembly kit may be provided withdown-rods of different lengths, or the kit may permit installationwithout a down-rod. However, in order to do so, the wires provided withthe kit must be long enough to electrically couple the fan motor to asource of alternating-current electric power at the greatest verticaldistance. In the case of some embodiments of the present invention, thewires provided in such a kit would need to be long enough to permit thewires to electrically couple the fan motor to a second electricalconnector which can then be engaged with a first electrical connector.However, if an individual wanted to install the ceiling fan at theshortest possible vertical distance between the ceiling and the fanmotor, the individual may normally need to cut and/or strip the wires.In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 20-24 , rather than cutting and/orstripping the wires 216, the individual can wrap the excess length ofthe wires 216 (and/or sleeve 220 enclosing the wires 216) around thehooks 224 on the mounting bracket 210 prior to engaging the secondelectrical connector 214 in the first electrical connector 222.

FIGS. 25-29 illustrate various components of another embodiment of asystem 305 for mounting an electrically-powered device, such as aceiling fan to a ceiling or other supporting structure. FIGS. 25-29focus primarily on other embodiments of a mounting bracket 310, ahangable structure 312, and electrical connectors 318,320. It should beunderstood that the hangable structure 312 in FIGS. 25-29 could becoupled to various electrically-powered devices including, for example,the ceiling fan components shown in FIGS. 1, 11, and 16 , lightingfixtures, etc. While various components are illustrated and described inconnection with these Figures, it should be understood that not allsystems according to the present invention may utilize each of thecomponents and features illustrated and described.

FIG. 25 is a front perspective view showing the hangable structure 312positioned so as to be hanging from the mounting bracket 310. Tofacilitate this positioning, the mounting bracket 310 comprises areceiving portion 316 (shown in FIG. 26 ) and the hangable structure 312comprises a mating member 314, with the mating member 314 beingconfigured to be positioned against the receiving portion 316. Themounting bracket 310 includes a first electrical connector 318 (shown inFIG. 26 ), and the hangable structure 312 comprises a second electricalconnector 320 (shown in FIG. 27 ). The first and second electricalconnectors 318,320 are oriented such that they vertically engage (makingan electrical connection) when the mating member 314 is properlypositioned against the receiving portion 316 of the mounting bracket 310as discussed further herein.

FIG. 26 illustrates one embodiment of a mounting bracket 310 that can beused in various embodiments of the present invention. The top portion ofthe mounting bracket 310 comprises two upper surfaces 322 that areadjacent to the ceiling and/or electrical junction box when the mountingbracket 310 is installed. Rather than having two upper surfaces asshown, alternative embodiments of mounting brackets can include a singleupper surface (e.g., a ring-shaped upper surface, a square-shaped uppersurface, an arc-shaped upper surface, etc.) or more than two uppersurfaces. The number of upper surfaces can depend on a number of factorsincluding, for example, the desired number of connection points for themounting bracket 310, material costs, the weight of the fan, light orother electrically-powered device to be supported, and other features ofthe mounting bracket 310. In the embodiment shown, each of the uppersurfaces 322 is provided with an opening 324. The openings 324 areadapted to receive a screw or other fastener to secure the mountingbracket 310 to a ceiling and/or an electrical junction box. For example,an electrical junction box may be provided with threaded openings toreceive screws that pass through the openings 324 to secure the mountingbracket 310 to the electrical junction box. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 25-29 , the openings 324 are in the form of slots, though those ofskill in the art will recognize that other shaped openings (e.g.,circular) could also be used. Likewise, other techniques for couplingthe mounting bracket 310 to the ceiling, support structure, and/orelectrical junction box can be used in other embodiments.

In the embodiment shown, there are two upper side surfaces 326 that areproximate the upper surfaces 324 of the mounting bracket 310. As notedabove, the number of upper surfaces in a mounting bracket may vary, andthe number of upper side surfaces may likewise vary. In the embodimentshown, the upper side surfaces 326 are curved and include a plurality ofopenings 328. The curved upper side surfaces 326 and plurality ofopenings 328 can facilitate connection of a canopy to the mountingbracket 310 after the hangable structure 312 is positioned in themounting bracket 310 and the electrical connectors 318,320 are engaged.In such an embodiment, the curved upper side surfaces 326 can bedesigned to coincide with an inner side surface of a canopy, and thecanopy can include a plurality of openings that align with the pluralityof openings 328 in the upper side surfaces 326. The canopy can besecured to the mounting bracket 310, in such embodiments, using aplurality of fasteners (e.g., screws) that pass through the openings inthe canopy and the openings 328 in the upper side surfaces 326. Othertechniques known to those of skill in the art can also be used to securea canopy to a mounting bracket depending on the size and shape of thecanopy, the number of desired connection points between the canopy andthe mounting bracket, the desired fastening method, and others.

The mounting bracket shown 310 in the embodiment of FIGS. 25-29 alsocomprises a receiving portion 316 as noted above. The receiving portion316 of the mounting bracket 310 can be designed to facilitate placementof, and to provide support to, the mating member 314 of the hangablestructure 312. The receiving portion 316 can have a number of differentconfigurations depending on factors such as the materials ofconstruction, the weight of the fan, light, or other electrical deviceto be supported, the size and shape of the mating member 314, the sizeand shape of any down-rod or other portions of the hangable structure312, the location of the electrical connectors 318,320, the ceiling orsupporting structure to which the mounting bracket 310 is to be mounted,and others.

Multiple sidewalls 330 extend from the upper surfaces 322 to a lowerportion of the mounting bracket 310. While multiple sidewalls 330 areshown in the Figures, in other embodiments, fewer or more sidewalls canextend from an upper surface to a lower surface. The number of sidewallscan depend on a number of factors including the materials used toconstruct the mounting bracket, the thickness of the sidewall(s), thenumber of upper surface(s), the position, shape, and configuration ofthe lower surface, any features on the lower surface, the weight of thefan, light, or other device being supported, and others.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 25-29 , the receiving portion 316 ofthe mounting bracket 310 is configured to assist in placement andsupport of the mating member 314 which is a ball-like structure in thisembodiment (while a lower hemisphere is shown in FIGS. 25-29 , an upperhemisphere or cover could be coupled to the lower hemisphere in someembodiments). In this embodiment, the receiving portion 316 comprises acurved plane shaped to complement the hemispherically shaped outersurface of the mating member 314.

While the receiving portion 316 forms an opening or hollow center 332(e.g., to permit the down-rod 344 or other structure to extend downwardfrom the mounting bracket 310), the receiving portion may also comprisean opening 334 (in this embodiment, formed by the ends of the curvedplane in the receiving portion 316), in some embodiments, to assist withreceiving the hangable structure 312. In other words, instead of forminga complete perimeter around the hollow center 332, the curved plane ofthe receiving portion 316 has an opening 334 to permit a portion of thehangable structure 312 (e.g., a down-rod 344 or other lower portion ofthe hangable structure 312) to slide into the hollow center 332. Theopening 334, in this embodiment, is sized to help retain the matingmember 314 in proper alignment once positioned on the mounting bracket310.

The opening 334 of the receiving portion 316 may be sufficiently sizedto allow a lower portion of the hangable structure 312 (e.g., a down-rod344 or other structure) to pass through the opening 334 and into thereceiving portion 316 while the mating member 314 passes above theopening 334. In some embodiments, the opening 334 of the receivingportion 316 may be sized to be smaller than the diameter of the matingmember 314 (or other relevant dimension if another shape is used) so asto help retain the mating member 314 in the receiving portion 316.

Likewise, the hollow center 332 can be dimensioned and/or shaped so asto permit a lower portion of the hangable structure 312 (e.g., adown-rod 344 or other structure) to pass downwardly through it as aresult of gravity but to prevent the mating member 314 from doing so. Inother words, the mating member 314 may be shaped differently from,and/or sized larger than, the hollow center 332 so as to interfere withgravity influenced-passage of the mating member 314 entirely through thehollow center 332 of the receiving portion 316.

In this embodiment, the curved plane of the receiving portion 316 is asupport surface, such that a portion of the outer surface of the matingmember 314 rests or is positioned against the support surface (curvedplane). In this manner, the curved plane of the receiving portion 316assists in keeping the mating member 314 in proper alignment. In someembodiments, the support surface can comprise multiple surfaces. Forexample, a plurality of curved planes could form the support surface insome embodiments. The curved plane of the receiving portion 316 alsoforms the hollow center 332 in this embodiment, though in otherembodiments, structure in addition to one or more curved plane(s) canhelp form a hollow center.

The mounting bracket 310 comprises a first electrical connector 318. Inthis embodiment, the first electrical connector 318 comprises aplurality of contact points incorporated into the curved plane of thereceiving portion 316. While three contact points are shown in thisembodiment, other numbers of contact points can be provided depending onthe number of wire connections to be made. In the embodiment shown, thecontact points are in the form of spring pin electrical contacts 318 a.In some embodiments utilizing spring pin electrical contacts in areceiving portion of a mounting bracket, the spring pin electricalcontacts can be configured to be actuated (i.e., an electricalconnection made) when the spring pins are depressed (e.g., when a matingmember is properly aligned in the receiving portion). The spring pinelectrical contacts 318 a can be incorporated into the curved plane ofthe receiving portion 316 using techniques known to those of skill inthe art. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 27 , the portionof the mounting bracket 310 incorporating the spring pin electricalcontacts 318 a can be provided as a separate assembly 336 and thencoupled to the mounting bracket 310 via a plurality of fasteners 338.The curved plane of the receiving portion 316, for example, can beprovided with a plurality of holes to receive the spring pin electricalcontacts 318 a when the assembly 336 is coupled to the mounting bracket310.

A plurality of wires 340 are configured to be electrically coupled tothe spring pin electrical contacts 318 a when the spring pins aredepressed. The wires 340 can be used to electrically couple the firstelectrical connector 318 to a source of alternating-current electricpower (e.g., house power, power from a generator and other sources knownto those of skill in the art). Wire nuts or other techniques known tothose of skill in the art can be used to electrically couple the wires340 to corresponding wires that are connected to the source ofalternating-current electric power.

In being electrically coupled to a source of alternating-currentelectric power, the first electrical connector 318 can provideelectricity to devices that are connected to the second electricalconnector 320 when the first and second electrical connectors 318,320are electrically coupled. In the embodiment shown, the first electricalconnector 318 utilizes electrical contact spring pins 318 a and can beengaged or connected with corresponding electrical contact surfaces(e.g., electrical contact surfaces 320 a). In other embodiments, thefirst electrical connector 318 can comprise a plurality of electricalcontact surfaces and can be engaged or connected with a correspondingplurality of electrical contact spring pins.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 25-29 , three wires 340 are provided(as best seen in FIGS. 27 and 29 ). By way of example, the two wires 340extending through the top surface of the assembly 336 can beelectrically coupled to the source of alternating-current electric powerand can ultimately provide electricity to an electrically-powered device(e.g., a fan motor). The wire 340 extending out the rear surface of theassembly 336 can be used as the ground, for example. While three wires340 are shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 25-29 , other wire arrangementscan be provided. For example, in some embodiments, two or four wires maybe utilized.

As noted above, in some embodiments, mounting brackets can be providedwith structure to facilitate use of a remote control to operate theceiling fan, lighting fixture, or other electrically-powered device. Forexample, the mounting bracket 310 shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 25-29is provided with a rail 342 that spans between the upper surfaces 322.The rail 342 and portions of the upper surfaces 322 can providestructural support for a remote control receiver, in some embodiments.As known to those of skill in the art, a remote control receiver canreceive wireless signals from a remote control to operate theelectrically-powered device (e.g., turn a ceiling fan on/off, adjust fanspeed, turn light on/off, adjust brightness, etc.). The remote controlreceiver can be electrically incorporated into various systems of thepresent invention using techniques known to those of skill in the art.While a rail spanning the upper surfaces is shown as an exemplaryembodiment, structure having other shapes and sizes can also be used(e.g., a ring structure such as that shown in FIGS. 1-19 ). One factorin selecting the size and shape of the structure as well as its locationon the mounting bracket is providing sufficient space for a hangablestructure to be properly positioned in the receiving portion of themounting bracket.

Turning now to the hangable structure 312, FIGS. 25-29 provide variousviews of the hangable structure 312 of this embodiment. In thisembodiment, the hangable structure 312 comprises a mating member 314that is a ball-like structure (approximately the lower half of asphere), and a down-rod 344. The ball-like structure of the matingmember 314 can allow for some rotation of the mating member 314 when itis aligned in the receiving portion 316 of the mounting bracket 310.Such rotation of the mating member 314 can, for example, facilitatemounting of a ceiling fan, lighting fixture, or otherelectrically-powered device on a ceiling or other supporting structurethat is not horizontal. In such embodiments, the rotation of the matingmember 314 can also cause the down-rod 344 to likewise rotate and hangsubstantially vertically when the mounting bracket 310 is installed on anon-horizontal ceiling or supporting structure.

In the embodiment shown, the mating member 314 has a substantiallyhollow interior to receive the down-rod 344. The down-rod 344 is coupledto the mating member 314 with a down-rod pin (not visible in FIGS. 25-29). The down-rod pin passes through two aligned holes in the down-rod 344and its ends sit in corresponding slots 345 in the mating member 314.The down-rod 344 can be coupled to the mating member 314 using othertechniques known to those of skill in the art. In some embodiments, themating member 314 and down-rod 344 can be constructed as a singlecomponent.

As discussed above, one or more walls of a mating member can be providedwith a protrusion that can slide into one or more corresponding slots ina mounting bracket (or vice versa) to facilitate placement and retentionof the mating member in the mounting bracket. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 25-29 , the curved plane of the receiving portion 316 is providedwith two prongs 346. The mating member 314 is provided with twocorresponding grooves 348. The grooves 348 are adapted to slide over theprongs 346 when the mating member 314 is positioned in the receivingportion 316 and facilitate/maintain alignment of the mating member 314on the mounting bracket 310. Alternative arrangements can also be used.

In some embodiments, a second electrical connector is coupled to thehangable structure 312. In the embodiment shown, the mating member 314comprises the second electrical connector 320. In this embodiment, thesecond electrical connector 320 comprises a plurality of electricalcontact surfaces 320 a. The contact surfaces 320 a are electricallyconductive such that electricity is conducted from the electricalcontact spring pins 318 a when the electrical contact surfaces 320 aengage the corresponding electrical contact spring pins 318 a (e.g.,when the mating member 314 is properly aligned in the receiving portion316 of the mounting bracket). The electrical contact surfaces 320 a canbe incorporated into the mating member 314 using techniques known tothose of skill in the art.

A plurality of wires 350 are electrically coupled to the secondelectrical connector 320. The wires 350 can be used to electricallycouple the second electrical connector 320 to components of anelectrically-powered device that require electricity. For example, thewires can be connected to a fan motor and/or a light. In the embodimentshown in FIGS. 25-29 , the plurality of wires 350 extend from thecontact surfaces 320 and through the down-rod 344 to eventually reach anelectrically-powered device. The wires 350 can be coupled to theelectrical contact surfaces 320 a using techniques known to those ofskill in the art such as by soldering. By way of example, two of thewires 350 can provide electricity to an electrically-powered device(e.g., a fan motor), and the third wire 350 can be grounded in someembodiments. While three wires 350 are shown in the embodiment of FIGS.25-29 , other wire arrangements can be provided. For example, in someembodiments, two or four wires may be utilized.

As discussed above, the first electrical connector 318 can beelectrically coupled to a source of alternating-current electric power,such that the first electrical connector 318 can provide electricity tothe items when the second electrical connector 320 is electricallycoupled to the first electrical connector 318. In the embodiment shown,the second electrical connector 320 comprises a plurality of electricalcontact surfaces 320 a and can be engaged or electrically connected withthe corresponding electrical contact spring pins 318 a of the firstelectrical connector 318. In other embodiments, the second electricalconnector 320 can be a plurality of electrical contact spring pins andthe first electrical connector 318 can be a corresponding plurality ofcontact surfaces.

The first electrical connector 318 and the second electrical connector320 engage vertically in this embodiment of the present invention. Inthis embodiment, the electrical contact surfaces 320 a of the secondelectrical connector 320 vertically engage the corresponding electricalcontact spring pins 318 a of the first electrical connector 318 (e.g.,depress the electrical contact spring pins 318 a) when the hangablestructure 312 (e.g., the mating member 314) is properly aligned in thereceiving portion 316 of the mounting bracket 310. Specifically, thesecond electrical connector 320 engages the first electrical connector318 when the mating member 314 of the hangable structure 312 is moveddownwardly into position so as to rest in a proper alignment against thereceiving portion 316 of the mounting bracket 310. With the secondelectrical connector 320 vertically engaging the first electricalconnector 318, the effect of gravity on the mating member 314 of thehangable structure 312 can assist in keeping the first and secondelectrical connectors 318,320 in electrical contact.

With regard to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 25-29 , FIGS. 26-27 showthe mating member 314 prior to positioning in the receiving portion 316of the mounting bracket 310. These Figures illustrate, for example, anembodiment where the shape of the mating member 314 substantiallymatches the shape of a surface (or surfaces) of the receiving portion316 (e.g., the curved plane). Likewise, as shown, the mating member 314is wider than a lower portion of the hangable structure (e.g., thedown-rod 344), and the opening 334 of the receiving portion 316 is ofsufficient size to allow the lower portion (e.g., the down-rod 344) topass through the opening 334 and into the receiving portion 316 whilethe mating member 314 passes above the opening 334. After the lowerportion of the hangable structure 312 is brought into the receivingportion 316 of the mounting bracket 310, the hangable structure can belowered so that the mating member 314 is positioned against one or moresupport surfaces (e.g., the curved plane) in the receiving portion 316.The hollow center 332 of the receiving portion 316 is sized to interferewith gravity-influenced passage of the mating member 314 entirelythrough the hollow center 332.

These structures, in this embodiment, facilitate proper alignment of themating member 314 in the mounting bracket 310. FIGS. 25 and 28-29 showthe mating member 314 properly aligned in the receiving portion 316 ofthe mounting bracket 310. While not visible in these Figures, theelectrical contact surfaces 320 a of the second electrical connector 320have vertically engaged the first electrical connector 318 by depressingthe corresponding electrical contact spring pins 318 a. The alignment ofthe mating member 314 in the receiving portion 316 of the mountingbracket 310 facilitated the vertical engagement of the electricalconnectors 318,320. In addition, the vertical engagement of theelectrical connectors 318,320 advantageously occurred as the matingmember 314 was positioned against the receiving portion 316 in properalignment. As the hangable structure 312 is coupled with a ceiling fanmotor and other associated components (or other electrically-powereddevices), the effect of gravity tends to keep the first and secondelectrical connectors 318,320 in electrical contact. The effect ofgravity also tends to keep the mating member 314 in proper alignmentwithin the receiving portion 316.

Different arrangements of the components depicted in the drawings ordescribed above, as well as components and steps not shown or describedare possible. Similarly, some features and subcombinations are usefuland may be employed without reference to other features andsubcombinations. Embodiments of the invention have been described forillustrative and not restrictive purposes, and alternative embodimentswill become apparent to readers of this patent. Accordingly, the presentinvention is not limited to the embodiments described above or depictedin the drawings, and various embodiments and modifications can be madewithout departing from the scope of the claims below.

What is claimed is:
 1. A ceiling fan kit comprising: a ceiling fan; amating member; an elongate down-rod configured for attachment to theceiling fan; a coupling member configured to couple the mating member tothe elongate down-rod, wherein the coupling member is rotatable relativeto the mating member to accommodate vertical alignment of the elongatedown-rod; and a mounting bracket configured to be attached to a ceiling,wherein the mounting bracket comprises a receiving portion configured tointerface with the mating member to support the ceiling fan from themounting bracket.
 2. The ceiling fan kit of claim 1, wherein: thereceiving portion comprises a hollow center and a perimeter openingsized to accommodate insertion of a portion of the elongate down-rodinto the hollow center while the mating member passes above theperimeter opening; and the receiving portion is configured to retain themating member in alignment with the receiving portion when the matingmember is positioned on the receiving portion.
 3. The ceiling fan kit ofclaim 2, wherein the mating member and the receiving portion havecomplementarily-shaped interfacing portions.
 4. The ceiling fan kit ofclaim 2, wherein the receiving portion is configured to interfere withgravity-influenced passage of the mating member entirely through thehollow center of the receiving portion.
 5. The ceiling fan kit of claim2, wherein the mating member is further configured to be lowered againstthe receiving portion to mount the mating member to the receivingportion.
 6. The ceiling fan kit of claim 2, wherein the receivingportion comprises a lower support surface and at least one slot formedby the lower support surface and two ridges on a sidewall of thereceiving portion.
 7. The ceiling fan kit of claim 6, wherein the matingmember comprises a protrusion configured to slide into the at least oneslot.
 8. The ceiling fan kit of claim 2, wherein the receiving portionfurther comprises at least one slot formed by two ridges on a sidewallof the receiving portion.
 9. The ceiling fan kit of claim 8, wherein themating member comprises a protrusion configured to slide into the atleast one slot.
 10. The ceiling fan kit of claim 1, comprising amounting bracket assembly and a ceiling fan electrical assembly,wherein: the mounting bracket assembly comprises the mounting bracketand a mounting bracket electrical assembly; the mounting bracketelectrical assembly comprises mounting bracket electrical wires and amounting bracket electrical connector mounted to the mounting bracket;the ceiling fan electrical assembly comprises ceiling fan electricalwires and a ceiling fan electrical connector configured for connectionwith the mounting bracket electrical connector to electrically connectthe ceiling fan electrical wires to the mounting bracket electricalwires to supply electrical power to the ceiling fan; the ceiling fanelectrical assembly has a length that accommodates differentconfigurations the elongate down-rod with different lengths tofacilitate selection of a vertical distance between the mating memberand the ceiling fan during installation of the ceiling fan.
 11. Theceiling fan kit of claim 10, wherein the mounting bracket is configuredfor retention of an excess length of the ceiling fan electrical assemblywhen the vertical distance between the mating member and the ceiling fanresults an excess length of the ceiling fan electrical assembly.
 12. Theceiling fan kit of claim 11, wherein the mounting bracket compriseshooks on opposing sides of the mounting bracket around which the excesslength of the ceiling fan electrical assembly can be wrapped to retainthe excess length of the ceiling fan electrical assembly in a compactconfiguration.
 13. The ceiling fan kit of claim 11, wherein the mountingbracket is configured to enable the excess length of the ceiling fanelectrical assembly to be wrapped around at least a portion of themounting bracket and accommodate different configurations of theelongate down-rod having different lengths without shortening of theceiling fan electrical assembly.
 14. An electrically powered device kitcomprising: an electrically powered device; a mating member; an elongatedown-rod configured for attachment to the electrically powered device; acoupling member configured to couple the mating member to the elongatedown-rod, wherein the coupling member is rotatable relative to themating member to accommodate vertical alignment of the elongatedown-rod; and a mounting bracket configured to be attached to a ceiling,wherein the mounting bracket comprises a receiving portion configured tointerface with the mating member to support the electrically powereddevice from the mounting bracket.
 15. The electrically powered devicekit of claim 14, wherein: the receiving portion comprises a hollowcenter and a perimeter opening sized to accommodate insertion of aportion of the elongate down-rod into the hollow center while the matingmember passes above the perimeter opening; and the receiving portion isconfigured to retain the mating member in alignment with the receivingportion when the mating member is positioned on the receiving portion.16. The electrically powered device kit of claim 15, wherein the matingmember and the receiving portion have complementarily-shaped interfacingportions.
 17. The electrically powered device kit of claim 15, whereinthe receiving portion is configured to interfere with gravity-influencedpassage of the mating member entirely through the hollow center of thereceiving portion.
 18. The electrically powered device kit of claim 15,wherein the mating member is further configured to be lowered againstthe receiving portion to mount the mating member to the receivingportion.
 19. The electrically powered device kit of claim 15, whereinthe receiving portion comprises a lower support surface and at least oneslot formed by the lower support surface and two ridges on a sidewall ofthe receiving portion.
 20. The electrically powered device kit of claim19, wherein the mating member comprises a protrusion configured to slideinto the at least one slot.
 21. The electrically powered device kit ofclaim 15, wherein the receiving portion further comprises at least oneslot formed by two ridges on a sidewall of the receiving portion. 22.The electrically powered device kit of claim 21, wherein the matingmember comprises a protrusion configured to slide into the at least oneslot.
 23. The electrically powered device kit of claim 14, comprising amounting bracket assembly and a electrically powered device electricalassembly, wherein: the mounting bracket assembly comprises the mountingbracket and a mounting bracket electrical assembly; the mounting bracketelectrical assembly comprises mounting bracket electrical wires and amounting bracket electrical connector mounted to the mounting bracket;the electrically powered device electrical assembly compriseselectrically powered device electrical wires and an electrically powereddevice electrical connector configured for connection with the mountingbracket electrical connector to electrically connect the electricallypowered device electrical wires to the mounting bracket electrical wiresto supply electrical power to the electrically powered device; theelectrically powered device electrical assembly has a length thataccommodates different configurations the elongate down-rod withdifferent lengths to facilitate selection of a vertical distance betweenthe mating member and the electrically powered device duringinstallation of the electrically powered device.
 24. The electricallypowered device kit of claim 23, wherein the mounting bracket isconfigured for retention of an excess length of the electrically powereddevice electrical assembly when the vertical distance between the matingmember and the electrically powered device results an excess length ofthe electrically powered device electrical assembly.
 25. Theelectrically powered device kit of claim 24, wherein the mountingbracket comprises hooks on opposing sides of the mounting bracket aroundwhich the excess length of the electrically powered device electricalassembly can be wrapped to retain the excess length of the electricallypowered device electrical assembly in a compact configuration.
 26. Theelectrically powered device kit of claim 24, wherein the mountingbracket is configured to enable the excess length of the electricallypowered device electrical assembly to be wrapped around at least aportion of the mounting bracket and accommodate different configurationsof the elongate down-rod having different lengths without shortening ofthe electrically powered device electrical assembly.